Mindful Conversations, with Shamash & Calvin

By: Shamash Alidina & Calvin Niles
  • Summary

  • Mindful Conversations is a series of conversations hosted by international bestselling author and mindfulness teacher Shamash Alidina and fellow bestselling author and storytelling expert, Calvin Niles. Together with some of their wisest friends and colleagues, they mindfully explore old and contemporary subjects to help their listeners lead richer and more meaningful lives. Series 1 - Mindfulness, ACT and the Hero's Journey Series 2 - Mindfulness, Wisdom, Compassion and AI
    Shamash Alidina & Calvin Niles
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Episodes
  • S2 E10 - Will We Become Homo Silicon Chipus?! Cautious Optimism about the Future - Shamash and Calvin
    Nov 9 2023

    In this episode, we explore the bigger picture of what we've learnt about AI, humanity, philosophy and spirituality in this season.

    Calvin is sharing with us from sunny Barbados, and reflects on the concept of 'creative destruction' in nature and its parallels with technology and AI.

    We ponder the potential evolutionary shift in humanity with the advent of AI, coining playful terms like 'Homo ChatGPTus' and 'Homo silicon chip-us,' suggesting a merging of human and artificial intelligence.

    There's a discussion on the integration of AI in enhancing human capabilities and the possibility that humans may evolve beyond Homo Sapiens through technology.

    We consider how AI and mindfulness can be aligned, discussing technology's role in promoting compassion and creativity. We reflect on the evolution of our thoughts over the season, moving from caution to a more optimistic and accepting stance on the inevitability of technological advancement.

    The episode concludes with both hosts sharing their takeaways from the season, emphasising the importance of enjoying the journey and remaining open and curious about the unfolding relationship between AI and humanity.

    Please send us a message via our website if you enjoyed the season! We'd love to hear from you.

    If you found our free gift of this podcast entertaining or interesting for you, please share your gratitude with a little review - thank you so much!

    ⁠CalvinNiles.com


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    44 mins
  • S2 E9: The Neuroscience of Manifestation and Real Secret to Happiness
    Oct 18 2023

    In this special episode of Mindful Conversations, we delve into the fascinating neuroscience of manifestation, the true secret to happiness, and the power of the human mind.

    Hosts Shamash and Calvin, along with their guests Dr. James Doty and Alex Nunn, introduce themselves and discuss their interests in topics like AI, happiness, and compassion. They emphasize the importance of compassion in creating a more caring society.

    Dr. Doty is an eminent neuroscientist and New York Times bestselling author. Alex Nunn is Head of Movement Building at charity Action for Happiness.

    Dr. Doty distinguishes between empathy and compassion, underlining that compassion involves both a desire to alleviate the suffering of others and an action component. Alex Nunn shares his personal journey and how compassion has become a central theme in his life.

    The conversation delves into the potential impact of AI on society, contemplating whether AI can help promote compassion or have negative consequences, including manipulative uses. They touch on the role of AI in mental health support and the importance of deep relationships and compassion in people's lives.

    The discussion also explores the role of technology, AI, and machine learning in promoting well-being and compassion, as well as the potential for both positive and negative impacts. They mention the power of AI to promote positive stories and cooperation but express concern about how profit motives can influence its use.

    Finally, they discuss how self-compassion and well-being practices can open the door to other positive attributes and experiences like community, creativity, and curiosity.

    Warning: Explicit content (swearing)







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    52 mins
  • S2, E8 - AI and its Impact on Humanity with Trevor Murphy
    Sep 21 2023

    Trevor Murphy has run several animation companies, hiring dozens of staff. In the last decade, he's focused his attention on spirituality and service. He's illustrated several books.


    In this episode, Trevor shares his feelings on AI and its impact on humanity. He discusses the fear surrounding AI and how it is often portrayed in a negative light. Trevor believes that AI can have positive aspects and shares examples of how AI has transformed people's lives, such as assisting individuals with dyslexia in communication and enhancing their writing skills.

    Trevor acknowledges that AI's development is accelerating at an exponential rate, and while he sees the benefits it can bring, he emphasizes the importance of treating AI with respect and being cautious about its rapid advancement. Trevor also explores the relationship between AI and creativity, expressing his belief that AI can be a tool to support creative endeavors but should not replace the physical and healing process of human creativity.

    The conversation also touches on the significance of the journey and process in various aspects of life, including running, spirituality, and the creative process. Trevor emphasises that while goals can provide motivation, the journey itself is often more important than reaching the destination. AI, in his view, can aid in the journey and provide confidence but should not overshadow the value of the process.


    Trevor's Books:

    Amuseum of Happiness

    Nami and Kai - Written with Calvin

    Wit and Wisdom - Written with Shamash

    The Joy of Affection - Written with Augusto D. Mello


    Get in Touch with Us

    ⁠Calvin Niles⁠

    Shamash Alidina

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    38 mins

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